10 Easy Ways to Keep Your Budget Under Control
Studying abroad is both new opportunities and adventures, and, of course, a test for the wallet. Even if you have a scholarship or support from your family, expenses pile up faster than you think! In order not to be left without money at the most inopportune moment, you should think in advance about how to keep a budget and stay on schedule. Below there are ten simple but effective tips that will help you feel more confident financially and not sacrifice the quality of student life.
Housing: Look for a balance
Rent is usually the most serious expense item. When choosing housing, it is important to look not only at the price of the apartment, but also at how much it will take to get there: sometimes it is more profitable to pay a little more for a room near the campus than to spend money and time on transport every day.
Decide for yourself what is really important and what you are ready to give up. A private bathroom? A spacious kitchen? Or is it better to live more modestly, but closer to the university? This approach helps not to overpay and at the same time live comfortably.
Budget - by week
Planning expenses for a month is useful, but it is much more convenient to divide them into weeks - this makes it easier to understand how much you have on hand. For example, at the beginning of the week, you can transfer the required amount to a separate card and see if it lasts until Sunday.
Learn to choose
Student life is rich in temptations: new sneakers, yoga courses, concerts, cafes. But all at once is unlikely. Try to compare spending with each other: which will bring you more joy or benefit? This makes it easier to give up something superfluous, saving money for really important things.
Control the little joys
You don't need to completely abandon spontaneous purchases. One or two unnecessary expenses a week - the budget does not suffer, and the mood remains at its best! The main thing is not to turn it into a system.
Entertainment is not always about money
In many cities, there are a lot of free or very affordable events: museums, student parties, lectures, open-air concerts. Subscribe to local posters and student chats - there you can always find interesting vacation options.
Plan meals
Going to a café quickly "eats up" the budget. If you cook at home and buy in advance, the costs become several times less. You can make a menu for the week and buy groceries at once.
By the way, in some countries there are apps where restaurants and stores give away food at a reduced price at the end of the day. You save – and help reduce food waste.
Transportation: Look for student fares
Many cities offer students travel passes at a reduced price. Sometimes it is more profitable to get a monthly card than to pay every time, especially if you do not live near the campus.
Buy wisely
Textbooks, furniture, clothing and appliances can be found in excellent condition on the secondary market. Second-hand stores, charity stores, online platforms are a great way to save money! Also you can sell unnecessary things yourself and get a bonus to the budget.
Use university resources
Many universities offer students assistance: budget advice, trainings, information about scholarships and grants. Sometimes they even help to find a part-time job or housing. It's part of your student infrastructure – don't hesitate to use it.
Set financial goals
It's easier to save when you know why. A trip, a laptop, an exchange study, or just a "safety cushion" — the goal helps you abandon impulsive purchases and see progress.
Total
Finance abroad is not such a terrible topic. It all comes down to simple things: plan a budget, keep track of expenses, use discounts and resources, and also leave room for small joys.
With this approach, money ceases to be a headache, and student years turn into a rich and vivid experience, in which there is enough knowledge, impressions, and freedom.
